That’s why we’re here! In this article, we have selected the best poles for snowshoeing on the market right now. We’ll also give you some useful tips on what to look for when buying your next pair of snowshoe poles.

For more of our top snowshoeing gear recommendations, check out the Best Snowshoes.

Reviews - Snowshoe Poles

Atlas Lockjaw 3-Piece Adjustable

Specs

• Material: Aluminum
• Shock Absorbent: No
• Number of Pieces: 3

Features

• Lockjaw adjustment mechanism
• Flexible tungsten carbide tips
• Ergonomic grips
• Nylon webbing wrist straps
• Removable snow baskets

PROS: Sturdy, made for winter sports, easy locking mechanism

CONS: Pricey

View at Amazon

Hiker Hunger 100% Carbon Fiber

Specs

• Material: Carbon
• Shock Absorbent: No
• Number of Pieces: 3

Features

• 100% carbon
• Quick-lock feature
• Carbide tungsten tips
• Comes with interchangeable tips
• Extended non-slip EVA foam grip

PROS: Very lightweight, strong, comfortable grip

CONS: Expensive

View at Amazon

Cascade Mountain Tech Quick Lock

Specs

• Material: Aluminum
• Shock Absorbent: No
• Number of Pieces: 3

Features

• Non-slip EVA grips with grip extension
• Quick lock mechanism
• Interchangeable tungsten carbide tips
• Snow baskets

PROS: Good locking system, cheap, durable

CONS: Not the lightest poles available

View at Amazon

Atlas 2-Piece

Specs

• Material: Aluminum
• Shock Absorbent: No
• Number of Pieces: 2

Features

• Steel tips
• Removable snow baskets
• Lockjaw adjustment mechanism
• Gender-specific grips
• Ergonomic rubber grips
• Adjustable nylon webbing wrist bands

PROS: Affordable

CONS: Longer when collapsed

View at Amazon

Foxelli 4 Season

Specs

• Material: Carbon
• Shock Absorbent: Yes
• Number of Pieces: 3

Features

• 100% carbon fiber
• Shock absorbent
• Quick lock technology
• Anti-slip cork grips
• Extra padded adjustable EVA foam wrist bands with extended foam sleeves
• Heavy duty 4 season accessories

PROS: Comes with carrying case, very light, lots of accessories, strong

CONS: Expensive

View at Amazon

Pacemaker Stix Expedition

Specs

• Material: Aluminum
• Shock Absorbent: Yes
• Number of Pieces: 3

Features

• Aluminum
• Shock-absorbent
• Patented locking mechanism
• Tungsten tips
• Removable vulcanized rubber feet
• Sweat-absorbing cork grips

PROS: Comfortable grip, affordable, durable, lightweight

CONS: None that we could find

View at Amazon

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SNOWSHOE POLES

Snowshoes are of course the most important piece of equipment you need to hit the trails in winter. They are, however, difficult to use without something to help you keep your balance. This is especially true when heading into more mountainous country. This is why you need snowshoe poles.

Snowshoe poles help to distribute your weight through your arms, shoulders and back. They offer an extra push when climbing a hill—similar to using a handrail on a stairway—and stability when descending.

When searching for the best snowshoe poles, these are the four most important things to consider.

ADJUSTABILITY

Adjustability is an important feature of any pair of snowshoe poles. You’ll want some that are easily adjusted and that are collapsible.

Snowshoe poles have either two or three telescoping pieces. Those with two pieces are longer when collapsed and require more space to store them. Three-piece poles are much smaller when collapsed and can be stowed in a very small space (like a backpack). Two-piece poles might be a tiny bit lighter, though.

The length of three-piece poles is also much more customizable than that of two-piece poles. This could be useful, particularly when snowshoeing in the mountains. For example, ascending steep slopes is easier with shortened poles. During a descent, on the other hand, you might want to extend the poles so they can reach the ground in front of you.

GRIPS

There’s a wide variety in grip materials and shapes. Many of them are ergonomically designed while others are simpler. Some are made with sweat-absorbent cork, others with foam or rubber.

The only way to find out which one suits you best is to try them out. In the store, grab them, try them and you’ll quickly feel if a pole is comfortable or not. The best hand grips are those that have extended foam grips below the actual grip. This allows you to shift your hand position up and down on the trail without having to adjust your poles’ length.

BASKETS AND OTHER ACCESSORIES

Many snowshoe poles are simply trekking poles with snow baskets. There really isn’t a big difference between the two types of poles. Just make sure that your poles come with snow baskets.

Just like your snowshoes prevent you from sinking into the snow, snow baskets limit how deep your poles sink below the snow’s surface. A diameter of two inches is the absolute minimum for snow baskets. Bigger is better. You’ll also notice that the best snowshoe poles come with more than one basket size.

MATERIAL

Although no snowshoe poles are particularly heavy, minimalistic hikers might consider this an important feature. If you’re trying to minimize weight, you’re advised to go for carbon poles. Carbon is lighter than aluminum, but know that it’s more prone to breaking, too.

That’s not to say that aluminum is heavy, though. It’s pretty light as well. Carbon is simply even lighter.

The post Best Snowshoe Poles of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

BEST CLOTHING AND GEAR FOR SNOWSHOEING

TIP #1: LAYER UP

Just like when you prepare for a skiing trip, it’s important to wear the proper clothing when snowshoeing. Layering your clothing is the key to staying warm and dry. If you’re already an avid hiker, you can use many of the same pieces of clothing for your snowshoeing adventures. Here’s a quick guide to layering up.

BASE LAYERS

Your first layers are thermal leggings and a thermal top. Base layers should be synthetic or wool because these materials wick moisture and dry quickly. Read our guide on the best base layers to learn how to choose yours.

MID LAYERS

On very cold days, you’ll want a good mid layer to keep your core warm. When choosing this layer it’s important to remember that everyone experiences the cold differently. Popular mid layer options are fleece jackets, down jackets, soft-shell jackets and down vests.

OUTER SHELL

Outer shell jackets and pants keep you dry. They should be waterproof and breathable.

ACCESSORIES

Don’t forget your extremities – you’ll want wool socks, waterproof boots, waterproof gloves, and a wool hat to keep you warm from head to toe.

TIP #2: CHOOSE THE BEST SNOWSHOES FOR YOU

Whether you’re renting or buying snowshoes, it’s important that they fit well and are designed for the type of terrain you’ll be on. The three most popular options are ones designed for flat terrain, ones for rolling terrain such as hills off the regular trail, and ones built for the steep, icy terrain of the mountains (not recommended for beginners). The flat terrain ones are easiest for beginners to use, as that’s the terrain they normally begin their learning on.

Most snowshoes these days are fairly easy to put on, as they go right over your waterproof boots you already have. You simply put your boots in the snowshoes, strap up, and you’re ready to go. The fit should be snug so your feet aren’t moving around, but not so tight that you’re in pain and will get blisters.

TIP #3: STAY HYDRATED

Don’t forget about staying hydrated even when you’re outside in the cold. According to Snowshoe Magazine, you get dehydrated faster by cold, dry air, so put a few water bottles in your backpack for your trip. Some snowshoers also like to carry a small day backpack with a water bladder like the CamelBak Antidote Reservoir. Also make sure to pack plenty of snacks or a lunch depending on how long you’ll be out for.

TIP #4: USE SNOWSHOE POLES

When you’re first starting out, using poles is highly recommended to help you get going. Make sure the poles are the right height before you start, which should allow your elbows to be slightly bent when holding them. You’ll also want to put your wrists through the straps to have a sturdy grip on them the whole time and prevent injuring others should you lose control of them.

TAKING YOUR FIRST STEPS

Once you’re strapped in to your snowshoes and poles, it’s time to take your first few steps. The motion is very similar to a normal gait pattern, as you’ll lift up your feet one at a time while proceeding forward with the pole on the opposite side. Your feet will need to be wider than normal to compensate for the width of your snowshoes, so it’s common for your inner and outer hips to be sore after your first session.

TIP #5: START EASY

Don’t jump right into going on a trail with steep hills in the mountains – you’re setting yourself up for disaster. You need to learn the basics first, so practice on a flat area without much traffic, if possible. Good places to begin are cross-country skiing areas or areas where you need a permit, but will be guaranteed to be flat and groomed.

TIP #6: KNOW THE TERRAIN

If you come later in the day, there might be plenty of snow that’s already been flattened by previous snowshoers. If it’s snowing or you come first thing in the morning, you might have to be the one who “breaks trail.” You’ll need to move slower and lift your feet higher than normal to start to flatten the snow, but you’ll get in a great workout!

TIP #7: LEARN TRAIL ETIQUETTE

To avoid making the regulars at your trail unhappy, you should know the etiquette on the trails. If you’re sharing it with skiers, they always have the right of way, as it’s much more difficult for them to stop or get out of the way suddenly. You’ll also want to try to stay out of the tracks the skiers have already created so you don’t make their time on the trail more difficult.

GOING UPHILL AND DOWNHILL

Sometimes it’s unavoidable to go on hills when you’re a beginner if you’re with a group of friends who are more advanced. Knowing the techniques for both going uphill and downhill will make your day much easier. They’re not very complicated, so you’ll be glad you took the time to learn them when you get to more advanced terrain down the road.

TIP #8: PRACTICE DOWNHILL TECHNIQUES

When you’re starting to go down a hill, keep your knees bent and put your poles firmly in front of you. Shift your bodyweight back to avoid tumbling head first down the hill. Slowly take each step with first your heel to provide stability, and then place your toe down.

TIP #9: PRACTICE UPHILL TECHNIQUES

Going uphill can be challenging as well, especially when conditions on the trail are icy. “Kick stepping” is the most common approach, which involves quite literally kicking the front of your snowshoe to get past the snow and planting your crampons into the snow in front of you. This will allow you to make “steps” for yourself to safely ascend without slipping backwards.

FALLING AND TURNING

TIP #10: LEARN HOW TO GET UP AFTER A FALL

When you’re just starting out, it’s almost inevitable that you’ll fall at some point. One of the easiest ways to get back on your feet is to roll on your front side and come to a half-kneeling position on one knee. You can then steady yourself with your arms to come to standing on both feet.

TIP #11: LEARN TO TURN AROUND

Being able to turn around when you’re on snowshoes is another vital piece to know how to do. If you have enough space and aren’t in a rush, you can simply walk in a larger circle to turn around and head in the right direction. Sometimes there won’t be enough room to do that, in which case you’ll want to place your snowshoes in the opposite direction and turn towards the direction you’re trying to go.

The post 11 Snowshoeing Tips for Beginners appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.

One of our big goals here at The Adventure Junkies is to make your life easier when it comes to shopping for outdoor gear. In this article, we’ll guide you through what to look for when choosing snowshoes and show you our selection of some of the best models of the year.

For more of our top snowshoeing gear recommendations, check out the Best Snowshoe Poles.

Reviews - The Best Snowshoes

MSR Lightning Ascent

Specs

• Crampon Material: Steel
• Frame Size: 22", 25" or 30"
• Weight: 4.00 lbs

Features

• 360-Degree Traction frame
• Torsion2 crampons
• Modular flotation tails
• Ergo Televators
• Posilock AT bindings

BEST FOR FOR EVERYONE FROM BEGINNERS TO EXPERIENCED HIKERS

PROS: Lightweight, easy to use, great flotation, wide range of optimal weight loads

CONS: Expensive, a lot of binding straps

View at REI

Atlas Treeline

Specs

• Crampon Material: Steel
• Frame Size: 25” or 30”
• Weight: 4.58 lbs

Features

• Wrapp Lux binding
• All-Trac toe crampon
• Advanced aft traction
• Nytex decking
• Heel lift bar
• LRS Light-Ride suspension
• Ridged side rails

BEST FOR WINTER ADVENTURERS LOOKING FOR SIMPLE-TO-USE AND GREAT PERFORMING SNOWSHOES

PROS: Suspension, durability, ease of use

CONS: None, they are simply awesome

View at Moosejaw

Tubbs Wilderness

View Women's Version

Specs

• Crampon Material: Steel
• Frame Size: 25", 30" or 35"
• Weight: 5.00 lbs

Features

• Aluminum Fit-Step frame
• Soft-Tec decking
• Rotating front crampons
• 180Pro binding
• Cobra traction
• Heel lifts

BEST FOR SNOWSHOEING ON ROLLING TERRAIN

PROS: Affordable, rotating front crampons for better traction, stable under weight,

CONS: Slightly heavier than other snowshoes, stiff heel lift

View at Backcountry

View at Amazon

Chinook Trekker

Specs

• Crampon Material: Aluminum
• Frame Size: 22", 25", 30" or 36"
• Weight: 4.31 lbs

Features

• Aluminum frame and crampons
• UV-resistant polyethylene decking
• Comes with carry bag and backpack straps

BEST FOR OCCASIONAL SHORT HIKES IN SNOW

PROS: Lightweight, extremely inexpensive, good for beginners

CONS: Lower-quality materials, less durable, bindings are less comfortable

View at Amazon

Tubbs Mountaineer

View Women's Version

Specs

• Crampon Material: Steel
• Frame Size: 25" or 30"
• Weight: 4.69 lbs

Features

• Pro-Step frame
• R2 Revolution Response suspension
• SoftTec decking
• ActiveFit bindings
• Steel Anaconda toe crampons
• Python heel crampons
• ActiveLift heel lift

BEST FOR BOTH BACKCOUNTRY AND TRAIL USE

PROS: Versatility, easy-to-use bindings, excellent flotation, secure fit

CONS: Heavier than most snowshoes, pricey

View at Amazon

HOW TO FIND THE BEST SNOWSHOES FOR HIKING

TYPE OF SNOWSHOE

There are three different types of snowshoes: flat terrain, sloping terrain and steep terrain snowshoes. There are also a few models that are made for specific activities such as climbing and trail running. Let’s talk about each type of shoe in detail so you can learn which is the best type of snowshoe for you.

FLAT TERRAIN SNOWSHOES are the best snowshoes for beginners. They’re made for easy walking on flat to gently rolling terrain and on well-groomed trails. These recreational snowshoes have simpler traction and are shorter than the other two options. They need less flotation because the trails are groomed.

SLOPING TERRAIN SNOWSHOES are ideal for those who want to do more serious winter hiking and backpacking. They are designed for use on trails on steeper slopes and rugged terrain. Their flotation is better than that of recreational snowshoes. These are arguably the most useful snowshoes for hiking because they work well for all but very steep terrain and icy conditions.

STEEP TERRAIN SNOWSHOES are specifically designed for backcountry use. They‘re suitable for experienced hikers, snowboarders and mountaineers. Designed for icy and steep slopes, they come with climbing-style crampons. If you’re an adventurer looking to blaze your own trail, this type of snowshoe is for you.

FRAME SIZE AND FLOTATION

The size of your snowshoes is the most important feature with regards to flotation. Snowshoes distribute your weight over a larger area so that your foot doesn’t sink completely into the snow, this is called flotation. In general, the lighter or drier the snow is or the heavier the hiker is, the more surface area is required for proper flotation.

Snowshoes also come in different shapes. Oval shapes provide better flotation because of their larger surface area. Narrow tapered shapes have less flotation but allow for more speed. Some types combine these two styles and feature a teardrop shape, with a wide frame and a tapered tail.

Take into account your own weight (the snowshoes will specify which weight range they support) and the most likely snow types of the region you’ll be snowshoeing most often. When checking out recommended loads, it’s important to know that these numbers are based on light, dry snow conditions.

Many manufacturers also make a women’s specific snowshoes. These shoes feature narrower designs and sizes down to 8″ x 21″. These shoes also have bindings that are sized to fit women’s footwear. While many women can use a unisex shoe, some might want to consider this option because it will fit better and be more comfortable.

TRACTION

In addition to staying “afloat” on snow, it’s critical to make sure that your snowshoes have enough traction. While making your way up a slope, the last thing you want to happen is sliding back down.

Nowadays, all snowshoes come with crampons. However, it’s still important to check the amount of traction they provide. The crampons are almost always placed underneath the bindings and/or on the side frame rails.

Crampons only underneath the bindings are sufficient for snowshoeing on flat groomed trails. But, if you want to take on steeper and perhaps icier slopes, you’ll want all the traction you can get. Other, extra types of crampons you may find on snowshoes are heel crampons and heel lifts, which are also known as climbing bars.

Pay attention to the crampons’ material and their depth. The deeper, the better the grip. Steel is a superior material because it’s durable, this is essential for technical, steep and icy terrain.

BINDINGS

There are two types of snowshoe bindings—fixed and rotating bindings. The function of bindings is to secure your foot into the snowshoe. They consist of straps that go around your heel and over your foot.

Fixed bindings do exactly what their name implies. They fix your foot onto the snowshoe, keeping it aligned with the shoe at all times. This gives you greater control of your foot’s movement and more comfort. It also makes it easier to navigate obstacles and objects. The downside is that these types are more difficult to use when walking and ascending (it’s somewhat like walking with skis).

Rotating bindings are able to pivot at the point of attachment to the snowshoe. This is under the balls of your foot. Allowing for greater freedom of movement, it makes it much easier to walk with your snowshoes and climb mountains. The downside here is that backing up and crossing obstacles can be awkward.

WEIGHT

Weight is an important aspect of all outdoor gear, from hiking pants and backpacking tents to backpacks. However, most snowshoes for hiking that are made nowadays are quite lightweight. It’s good to double-check the weight, though. So, aim for snowshoes that weigh less than 5 lbs. per pair. (All snowshoe pairs selected in this guide weigh 5 lbs. or less.)

The post Best Snowshoes of 2022 appeared first on The Adventure Junkies.